for good intentions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for good intentions" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are describing a situation or action that was done with positive intentions. For example, "He purchased a present for his wife for good intentions, even though she wasn't pleased with the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

So much for good intentions.

The Economist

So you have to actively look for good intentions.

University of California, Berkeley

Today, unfortunately, tens of millions of Bangladeshis are paying the price for good intentions.

Columbia University

"We don't struggle for good intentions," said Mr. Tan, the "Forgetful Gentleman" author.

The New York Times

Throughout the euro crisis, they have sought credit for good intentions and effort.

The New York Times

In this weak economy, there isn't much tolerance for good intentions.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

These economic gauges approach economic assessment as an end-result on the cost side of the product and may result for good intention to be shelved, primarily because EE equipment and RE have high capital cost compared with the alternatives.

Energy Conversion and Management

Despite admiring Payne for his good intentions, the potential for screwing up even the most basic of protocols is partially why Gross advises against vigilantism.

Vice

So much for my good intentions and our hope for a quick fix.

The Guardian - Opinion

For myself personally, I'll gladly pour one for the long gone Luke Cage for its good intentions.

Vice

There's a smile in his voice as he says it, an affection both for the failure of the image and for its good intentions.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for good intentions" to introduce a nuanced view, especially when criticizing actions. It softens the critique by acknowledging the positive motivation behind the efforts.

Common error

Don't let "for good intentions" serve as a blanket justification for negative results. Always analyze the actual impact and learn from any mistakes made, regardless of the initial motivations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for good intentions" typically functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause, providing context about the motivation behind an action or decision. Ludwig's examples show it often introduces a justification or explanation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

12%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for good intentions" is a common way to describe actions or decisions that were motivated by positive purposes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. However, it's crucial to remember that good intentions alone don't guarantee positive outcomes. Often, the phrase introduces a note of caution or a need for further analysis. Be sure to use "for good intentions" in a nuanced way, balancing the acknowledgment of the motivation with an honest assessment of the results. Alternatives like "with the best of intentions" or "motivated by goodwill" can offer similar shades of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with the best of intentions

Emphasizes the positive motivation behind an action, highlighting that the intentions were pure even if the outcome was not ideal.

motivated by goodwill

Highlights the positive and benevolent motivation driving the actions.

driven by noble motives

Implies the actions are inspired by high moral principles and a desire to do what is right.

with honorable aims

Focuses on the respectable and ethical goals that guide the efforts.

in pursuit of worthy goals

Highlights the commendable objectives that the actions are trying to achieve.

acting out of kindness

Emphasizes the benevolent and compassionate nature of the motivating factors.

guided by benevolent aims

Suggests that the actions are directed by a desire to do good and promote well-being.

inspired by altruistic purposes

Highlights that the driving force is a selfless concern for the welfare of others.

with philanthropic intent

Focuses on the charitable and humanitarian nature of the underlying motivation.

on a mission of beneficence

Implies a dedicated and purposeful effort to bring about positive change and benefit others.

FAQs

How can I use "for good intentions" in a sentence?

You can use "for good intentions" to explain the motivation behind an action, even if the outcome was not ideal. For example: "The project, "launched for good intentions", ultimately failed due to poor planning."

What are some phrases similar to "for good intentions"?

Alternatives include "with the best of intentions", "motivated by goodwill", or "driven by noble motives". Each carries a slightly different nuance, emphasizing the underlying motivation behind an action.

Is it always appropriate to say something was done "for good intentions"?

While it acknowledges positive motivation, using "for good intentions" can sometimes sound dismissive if the results were harmful. It's important to balance the acknowledgment of intent with an analysis of the actual impact.

What's the difference between "for good intentions" and simply saying something was "well-intentioned"?

"Well-intentioned" describes the inherent nature of the action, while "for good intentions" explains the purpose behind it. Both suggest positive motivations, but "for good intentions" might imply a more specific, defined aim.